Phoenix Suns part with GM Lance Blanks

The Phoenix Suns announced they have parted with general manager Lance Blanks after just three seasons on the job.

"Lance has been a trusted friend and colleague," said Suns President of Basketball Operations Lon Babby. "I thank him personally and professionally for his hard work on behalf of the Suns. We will continue to prepare for the offseason even as we look for his replacement."

Blanks was originally hired by the team in August of 2010 after working for the Cleveland Cavaliers and San Antonio Spurs. There was one year left on his contract.

Of note, Blanks played a role in the Suns drafting Markieff Morris and Kendall Marshall, as well as the acquisitions of Michael Beasley and decision to promote Lindsey Hunter to interim head coach in January.

Who the Suns will seek to replace Blanks is not yet known, though Yahoo Sports' Adrian Wojnarowski has a name in mind:

For Suns GM job - dysfunctional franchise, cheap owner - an easy name among those who'd get more out of less: Knicks exec Mark Warkentien.